The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Museum is gearing up for an insightful exploration of the Boer War through the lens of a Scottish regiment in an upcoming lecture.
Delving into History
Colonel A.K. Miller CBE, the chairman of the Stirling Castle-based museum, will lead the talk titled “The 91st’s Service in the South African (Boer) War 1899-1902.” This lecture is part of the museum’s Winter Lectures series, focusing on the Argylls’ experiences in the South African conflict. Colonel Miller will delve into the proud history of the regiment and how it struggled against the ‘highly motivated’ and ‘strategically resourceful’ Boer republics.
Uncovering Unpublished Material
Drawing from unpublished material in the Argylls’ archives at Stirling Castle, Colonel Miller will recount the three bloody confrontations the Scots regiment faced at Magersfontein, Modder River, and Paadeburg. He will shed light on the challenges faced by the Argylls and other British regiments as they battled a manoeuvrable and ‘resourceful partisan force’ fighting on its home ground.
Colonel Miller’s Insights
Highlighting both the setbacks and military achievements, Colonel Miller will share stories of extraordinary courage and resourcefulness in gruelling circumstances. He acknowledges the controversial nature of many actions during the Boer War but aims to provide a fresh perspective on the contributions of the 91st Argylls.
The Boer War talk is scheduled for 11am on Saturday, January 11, in the Colours Room at The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Museum, Kings Old Building, Stirling Castle. The 45-minute lecture will be accompanied by tea and coffee before and after the event.
Alan Carmichael, the chief executive of the Argylls Museum, emphasizes the importance of education and outreach in the museum’s mission. He notes the growing interest in learning more about the historical impact of great Scottish regiments like the Argylls on a global scale.
